to feel annoyed about having to keep tabs on friends children in the playground?

[lill72]

Just wondered how you all feel about this...

I often go to the playground with the same group of friends and our almost 4 year olds. I have a DD almost 4 and am 7 months pregnant. Some of the mums also have a second child between, so they have to keep an eye on two. Tricky I know.

Problem is, I seem to find myself keeping an eye on one of theirs as well as mine, as every couple of minutes I am being asked where one or the other is. I don't mind going on a hunt every now and then if they can't see them, as they would if I couldn't see my DD, but this is constant.

I feel like I then have to divert attention from my DD and where she may be. I guess I just don't feel like this would be reciprocated with one mum in particular, as she is very panicy about her kids, but wouldn't do the same for others.

I'm happy to help, but not take on a responsiblity if you know what I mean. Thoughts?

You are definitely hearing things in panicky mum's tone of voice.

No, don't argue with me, you are hearing things. No... shut up and listen she is NOT asking you to go and look she is just throwing the question out there

Now, put your 7 months pregnant brain and body into 'my child' gear and keep them there.

You have a built in excuse to stop dashing round after all and sundry. Use it, break the 'responsible habit' and let them parent their own kids. A quick grimace and an 'ooh' [grasp tummy and look as though you would like to accommodate them] should do the trick in no time.

Start practising NOW

Must admit I don't really keep that close an eye on my 3/4 year old in a big enclosed play park. I tend to sit on a blanket with other mums/babies and chat, and just check I've seen him every 5 minutes of so.

I went to the park once with a friend who was constantly helping my dc. She could be one of the posters on here saying they always end up helping others kids.
Here's the thing - it drove me bonkers, and I've never been back to the park with her again.
If a child can't negotiate a climbing frame on his/ her own, he shouldn't be on said climbing frame.
No one over the age of 2/3 should be helped IMO , apart from being pushed in swings.
When I take my girls to the park, I find a bench and get my book out. Better for them, and better for me.

Just tell her it's an enclosed park, he couldn't have gotten very far. Logically he has to be on the playground still. The point of the playground is to go play without your parents helicoptering over you.